Birla Mandir also known as the Lakshminarayan Temple is one of the major attractions of Delhi. Open to visitors throughout the week, it has become a significant place of worship. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and when it was built in 1939, Mahatma Gandhi inaugurated it.
Birla Mandir is more than just a religious place; it is a cultural attraction centre as well. Located in Connaught Place, Birla Mandir tends to attract a lot of tourists throughout the year. Moreover, it is spread across an area of 7.5 acres showcasing the temple, shrines and various sculptures of religious importance.
History of Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir was built for a period of six years from 1933 to 1939 by Baldeo Das Birla along with his songs. The temple houses the shrines of some of the leading deities such as Ganesha, Human, Shiva, and Buddha. It is known for being the first largest Hindu temple in Delhi. As it was constructed by the Birla family, it gained the name of Birla Mandir.
The temple is located in a prime location, with everything arranged properly to accommodate a large number of tourists. Although it is built using modern technology, there are some similarities with the Nagara style of architecture.
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Scenic Vantage Points to Visit Near Birla Mandir
Located near one of the most happening places around Delhi, Connaught Place, Birla Mandir is surrounded by several beautiful places.
Some of the popular scenic places to visit near Birla Mandir are as follows:
1. National Museum of Delhi
The Delhi National Museum is one of the largest and oldest museums of India showcasing the diverse and rich unity of the country. The museum houses over 2 lakh artefacts, some of which are as old as 5000 years. Thus, the National Museum Delhi can offer a great insight into the older culture and history of the place.
Visiting the National Museum will provide the opportunity to view a wide range of classic and historical collections like coins, jewellery, sculptures, textiles and manuscripts. All these items belong to different periods of Indian history. The museum also has guided tours and audio-visual shows explaining the importance of all exhibits.
Tip: Stay prepared for a day out as you may have to dedicate your entire day to exploring the place.
2. Chhatarpur Temple
The Chhatarpur Temple is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani and is also known as Shri Aadya Katyayani Shakti Peetham. It is located on a stretch of 70 acres of land on the outskirts of Delhi. Chhatarpur Temple was established in 1974.
After the Akshardham Temple, the Chhatarpur Temple is one of the largest temples in Delhi, and it shares proximity with the Birla Temple. The temple is made of marble according to the Vesara style of architecture. Some of the other major attractions around the Chhatarpur Temple include Badkhal Lake, Surajkund, Anangpur Dam, Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary and more.
Tip: Attend the evening aarti from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
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3. India Gate
India Gate is a war memorial built to honour the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives for the country during World War I and the Afghan wars. The 42-metre-high arch has the names of all martyrs written all over it. Moreover, there’s also an eternal flame that burns throughout, honouring them and their memories.
Visiting India Gate will give you an opportunity to honour the bravery and valour of the unsung heroes of the country. You can also get a view of Rajpath when you visit India Gate.
Tip: Enjoy scenic boating at India Gate between 2:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
4. Humayun’s Tomb
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Built during the 16th century, Humayun’s Tomb reflects a great blend of Mughal architecture with Persian architecture. It is the perfect example of a charbagh wherein the adjacent pools are joined by channels. The entrance to the garden is from the Southern and Western sides whereas the main pavilions are located around the northern and eastern walls.
Tip: Try visiting during the late afternoon to explore the place at its best.
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5. Jantar Mantar
Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jantar Mantar in Delhi is one of the most famous astronomical laboratories. The Rajput King, Maharaja Jai Singh II was not only a chivalrous warrior and ruler but also an avid astronomer. His love for astronomy led to the creation of Jantar Mantar.
The astronomical laboratory has various instruments for measuring the movement of the sun, moon, planets and stars which further helps in measuring time. If you’re interested in Science and Astronomy, you should definitely consider visiting Jantar Mantar. You’d be surprised by how accurate these instruments are.
Tip: You will need 2 hours on a sunny day and 1.5 hours on a cloudy day to explore Jantar Mantar fully.
6. Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts
The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts is an autonomous institute managed by the Union Ministry of Culture. Inaugurated in 1985, several leading events in Delhi happen at the art centre. You won’t be disappointed when you visit the place because you will always have something to explore.
The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts was established as the centre for creative literature- oral and written. The centre also hosts various visual arts elements such as sculpture, painting, graphics and architecture. Apart from these, various performing arts events are also held here.
Tip: Avoid visiting on weekends as it is closed.
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7. Shri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara
Shri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara is located very close to Connaught Place and is hailed to be one of the most important gurudwaras for Sikhs. It was built in 1783 as a small shrine by Sikh General Sardar Baghel Singh. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is popular for being associated with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Kishan.
It was originally a bungalow in the seventeenth century, which was later transformed into a gurdwara. It is believed that Guru Har Kishan stayed in this gurudwara in 1664 when he visited Delhi.
Tip: Read the rules and regulations before entering the gurdwara premises.
Birla Mandir Entry Fee and Timings
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You must know all the Birla mandir timings and the fees they charge to make sure you have a smooth visit. Birla Mandir is open seven days a week. However, the hours may differ from Monday to Saturday and then on Sunday.
From Monday to Saturday, Birla Mandir is open from 4:30 AM to 1:30 PM and it reopens again from 2:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The temple is closed from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM from Monday to Saturday for maintenance. On Sundays, Birla Mandir is open 24 hours.
As for fees, Birla Mandir doesn’t charge any for all the visitors. Nonetheless, if you’re planning to use any additional fee like a locker facility or museum, you may have to pay a nominal fee.
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Birla Mandir Rules and Regulations
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When you’re planning to visit Birla Mandir you need to stay prepared with the dress codes. The temple authorities levied very strong dress on the visitors. The visitors need to wear modest and decent clothes covering their shoulders and knees.
Before entering the temple premises, it is also important to remove the shoes. The temple authorities have dedicated a counter for the visitors to deposit their shoes when they’re visiting the place. Moreover, they also have a security check wherein you will have to pass through a metal detector and scanner.
Some items are banned from taking into Birla Mandir. The prohibited items within the temple:
- Explosives
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Weapons
Main Festivals Celebrated in Birla Mandir
The best time to visit Birla Mandir is when there are some auspicious events and festivals. Various festivals and events are celebrated throughout the year in the temple. So, below are some of the major events during which you can visit Birla Mandir:
1. Diwali
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If you want to experience Birla Mandir’s beauty at its best, it is advisable to visit the mandir during Diwali. The temple celebrates the festival with grandeur and enthusiasm as several lamps, candles and fireworks are lit. The visiting devotees may offer their prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. The temple authorities hold sweets and gift distribution ceremonies for the visitors.
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2. Janmashtami
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Yet another festival celebrated on a grand level at the Birla Mandir is Janmashtami. The temple is decorated with flowers whereas the idol of Lord Krishna is adorned with jewellery and new clothes. The entire day is celebrated by singing devotional songs to Lord Krishna. The temple authority organises the dahi handi for young men.
3. Ram Navami
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Ram Navami is celebrated on a huge scale at the temple. While the pictures of Lord Rama are put up around the temple, it is also adorned with flowers. A chariot is taken out with the idol of Lord Rama placed on it for a procession around the temple.
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If you want to explore the beauty of the temple, it would be best to visit Birla Mandir at night. The temple authorities hold pooja and light up the entire place, making it bright and welcoming. Plan your trip to Delhi and attend the evening aarti while you’re here in Birla Mandir. On auspicious and holy days, the temple authorities also distribute sweets and prashads, so make sure to visit during this time. Since it’s in a very prominent location in Delhi, it shouldn’t be too hard to reach Birla Mandir!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Birla Mandir
What is Birla Mandir famous for?
Birla Mandir is famous for being the first largest Hindu temple built in Delhi. It has beautiful sculptures of Laxminarayan and is one of the most popular tourist attractions.
Which metro station is near Birla Mandir?
The nearest metro station to Birla Mandir is Patel Chowk, being only 4 mins walk away from the temple.
Which God is prayed to in Birla Mandir?
Lord Vishnu along with Goddess Lakshmi are prayed to in Birla Mandir. People from all castes come to seek blessings in this mandir.
When was Birla Mandir established and by whom?
Birla Mandir was completely built by 1939. It was inaugurated by the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi
Which rock is Birla Mandir Delhi made of?
Birla Mandir is constructed of white marble stones that add to its aesthetic value. Most foreigners enjoy their time in the peaceful essence of the temple.
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